Ambivalence in grief therapy: the interplay between change and self-stability

This article explores the role of ambivalence in grief therapy within a narrative framework. From
this perspective, change starts with the occurrence of innovative moments, which can be nullified
by reaffirmation of the problematic self-narrative as a sign of ambivalence. This study analyzed
ambivalence in six complicated grief cases using the “Return to the Problem Coding System.”
Markers of ambivalence emerged in all cases, with a decreasing profile in cases with greater
symptomatic improvement, suggesting an association between clinical change and ambivalence
evolution in therapy. Addressing ambivalence may bring to light important aspects of client’s selfreconstruction after a major loss.
Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology, through the Grant PTDC/PSI-PCL/121525/2010 (Ambivalence and Unsuccessful Psychotherapy,2012–2015) and the PhD Grant SFRH/BD/48607/2008